To solve the problem of a steep staircase to the basement, we installed a new set of stairs that are much easier to navigate. Adding just one extra stair allowed us to make the rise for each step 7 5/8 inches, which is a much safer height than the previous rise of 8 ½ inches. Continue reading Basement in Edmonton – New Staircase→

Starting a full basement renovation in March in Edmonton, Alberta means snow and cold (it hit -40 degrees Celsius last week!) So to address the issue of moisture entering the basement through the concrete walls, we had to work from the inside first and leave the exterior drainage upgrades for later in the spring. Continue reading Basement Reno in Edmonton – Foundation Coating→

We were contacted in January to travel to Edmonton and renovate an unfinished basement in a house built in the 1950’s. This family of three is expanding with a planned pregnancy this year, and they need more room in their living space. Continue reading Basement Renovation in Edmonton→

A timber frame raising is a spectacular event, as each timber that has been meticulously chosen, milled, planed, and notched is fitted into its precise location. Once the timbers have each been cut and notched in the shop, a house frame may be assembled and raised on site in a matter of days.

The beauty of a natural timber frame is such that most owners prefer to have the frame in full view from the interior of their building, with the wall systems and insulation wrapping around the outer edge of the frame.

The house frame shown here will have a wall system of straw bales and natural clay plaster. This system provides energy efficiency and a comfortable level of humidity in the home using materials that are highly renewable. The clay plaster will help the walls to “breathe”, preventing moisture from getting trapped in the walls.